Disclaimers as usual: Infinite Stratos belongs to Izuru Yumizuru.
Story so far: Orimura Madoka had been pronounced dead after being involved in an incident. Orimura Chifuyu after going through much grief, decided to take matters with her own hands by setting up a detective agency along with her brother Orimura Ichika (Not sure if willing or not). But before setting up the detective business, she has to return the favor by going to Germany for a year.
Approximately one year later, Ichika's Dream
"Gah!" Ichika grunted as one of the White Knight's blows took a hit towards him, sending him to the ground.
"Come now, surely you do not stay down while you're still capable to fight?" His opponent The White Knight spoke as she was in front of him.
The green plains turned into a land of carnage after multiple battles between her and him. Ichika and the White Knight had been battling for hours, but no pain and fatigue were present between the two.
"Thou hath the desire?" The Knight spoke as as she slashed forward towards him.
Ichika blocked her sword using his polearm.
"What are you talking about?" Ichika repels the knight, gaining a distance to both of them.
"Those who have no desire shall not deserve to live. Thou must have desire to live."
It has been months since the Knight first appeared in his dream and ever since then; she had appeared before him every time he sleeps and request a battle to 'satisfy' her urge. For Ichika, her encounter had made him more alert and becoming to adapt to battle.
"As thy said before during our first meeting, thou was born to fight. Do thou not realize it?"
"..."
As long in Ichika's life, he has the desire to get stronger. He cannot explain why he desires that, even during in his childhood.
"As if I was born to fight..."
"If thou desire to get stronger, then thou shall show force to your opponents." The knight puts her sword down impaling the ground of what remains of the green plains. She sat down to the ground, indicating the battle was over in this dream session.
"Have thou think this through?"
"Hm?"
"We have battled in this land of dream; thou felt no pain or fatigue. But that is not the case in your world, the physical world."
"..."
"If thou were to engage a fight in your world, thou shall experience pain and fatigue unlike in here, but you will retain what thou have learned in this world, you're fighting skill has become superb after months of fighting me."
Ichika lets out a sigh of depression.
"What is the matter, master of this dream world Orimura Ichika?"
"*Sigh* Chifuyu-nee is going to leave to Germany tomorrow. I saw her packing her bags and she told me about it just this evening."
"I see...Even so, you seemed to be the type of person who can take care of himself."
"Yeah, I do most of the housework all the time since...Madoka died."
"Why are you being so depressed? She was gone a long time ago. You should move on."
"I know...Maybe I'll visit her grave next month, since it's her anniversary."
"Do as thou wish...to your heart's desire."
"..."
"By the way, you seemed to be capable to use a sword as well as a polearm. Thy shall give my sword to thee as part of your training tomorrow."
"Is it okay that I should the using your sword?"
"No matter how a sword is formed, it is still a sword. Do not worry; I will only give you a replica."
"Is it necessary for me to learn how to swing a sword?"
"If you can master a polearm, a sword should be just as easy. Tis is a knight's way to learn the way of the sword as the way of the lance, just as what your country refer to as the 'samurais'."
"You're not answering my question."
"Why should I answer a question that only you can answer?"
"..."
The world slowly drifts apart in front of him. It's time for him to wake up.
Few weeks ago
It was just a normal day for Chifuyu as she was minding her own business by investigating her sister's incident that killed her around a year ago. The lack of lighting in the room indicates that it is nighttime, specifically very late night.
Her eyes were baggy, and there's coffee right next to her. An indication that she's been doing this for quite a while.
They had the results from the police that it was no accident that Madoka died during that fateful day. She was assassinated, but no one knows the culprit responsible for her death. No witness report claims that they saw anyone suspicious in the area during that day and that adds to the mystery. But according to the damage made, it is safe to assume that whoever killed her must have used heavy weaponry or a very powerful bomb. The latter might be more of a possibility since no one saw anyone that could be the culprit during that day.
"..." Right now, Chifuyu scanned and go through pictures of the crime scene intently.
Pipipipipipippipi~!
When suddenly, the phone ringed. It was hers.
"Ugh...who could have called me at this hour?"
She looked at her phone, and to her surprise it's Lieutenant Clarissa Harfouch from Schwarzer Hase.
"Chifuyu here..."
[Ah Brun, I hope I'm not disturbing you or whatnot but...the date has been set. You will go to Germany at 3 weeks from now. Please purchase your ticket on the way; I'm afraid I cannot support you on your flight this time.]
"I understand..."
[Brun, let me just say that they are eager to learn from you, the soldiers that is.]
"How many exactly am I going to train?"
[Around thirty or more, almost similar to what they teach in the IS academy.]
"I see..."
[Well then, that takes care of your end of the deal. I'll be seeing you in three weeks.]
"..."
Beep. The call ended.
Chifuyu puts down her phone at her desk and continues looking at the pictures of the crime scene. Note that the detective agency has not officially started yet, but she has already started investigating Madoka's case.
"Ugh, this is getting nowhere. Aside from knowing that this is no accident, no other details were found. This is a dead end. No one suspicious, eyewitness report detect nothing, this is rather a stealthy crime, as if...it is a stealth assassination method."
"..."
"..No, Assuming alone is not going to get this case any progress. I need more evidence to support my case. If that's the case, I need to look at the crime scene within three weeks."
The next day...
Morning has hit the Orimura residence, or at least their room and Chifuyu had breakfast with Ichika, which is rather surprising for the boy.
"Chifuyu-nee, you're up early today."
"I have something to do..."
"...?"
Ichika was wearing his school uniform while Chifuyu is wearing her formal attire. Chifuyu is still an IS pilot so she works at the IS testing facility to test out ISes as an IS pilot, at least that's what Ichika thought.
"See you later, Chifuyu-nee." Ichika grabbed his bag and left for school.
Chifuyu finishes her breakfast and left, not forgetting to lock the door.
However instead of going to the IS testing facility, she went to their old residence which was burned into flames around a year ago. The scene was sealed by the police as there were police tapes at the entrance of their old house. However, since the place has not been kept watch the whole year, the police tapes have become worn out and Chifuyu easily rid of the police tape and went into the burnt house.
As Chifuyu went inside the house, memories started to flood her. Almost everything was burnt beyond recognizable inside the house. She looks around and found a burnt couch, and she saw one spot that was less burnt. It was the spot where Madoka sat, during the fateful day.
Chifuyu sat on it for a while, not minding the burnt remains of the couch going through her clothing.
"This was her favorite seat in the living room..."
She stood up, dusting of the burnt remains off her clothing. She searched, and searched until she saw something that caught her attention. A metal fragment was detected a few meters away from the couch she has sat on. She took the fragment that was the size smaller than her hand.
She observes the fragment briefly and decided to keep it for more intense observation.
"Looks like I have work to do..."
Chifuyu looked around some more, but there seemed to be nothing interesting left for her to search.
"I guess this will do; besides the police force must have all the other evidence."
Chifuyu turns back at the entrance at the remains of their old house and left to the apartment.
That evening...
"Chifuyu-nee, you're here?"
Ichika returned from school, surprised to see his sister at home early.
"I didn't have any task at the facility; I just went for a walk."
"I see...it's rare for you to be here this early."
"Is there something wrong with that?"
"Well, no."
Ichika cooks dinner for tonight, and as the two arrived at the dining table, eating their dinner, Chifuyu is fatigued from investigating the house.
"Sigh, I'm feeling tired..."
Ichika looks at his sister strangely.
"Huh, it's only seven."
"I didn't sleep last night..."
"Well you should get some rest Chifuyu-nee, I'll carry you to your bed."
As Ichika went and grab her, she struggled out of protest.
"I said I'm tired, not drunk."
"Sorry..."
Ichika lets her go, and Chifuyu manages to stand up from the dining table, although quite groggy and went to her room.
'...No wonder her eyes were red this morning.'
Ichika after finishing his meal and cleans up the kitchen, Ichika indirectly went to Chifuyu's table and saw pictures of the crime scene. He sat down and looked closer to the picture and he saw the metal fragment Chifuyu picked up earlier next to it.
'I guess Chifuyu-nee wants this case over with...although at this rate, the case is getting nowhere.'
Ichika stood up off the desk and went back to his room where he will spar with the White Knight in his dream once again.
Back to few weeks later
It was a Saturday morning.
Ichika watches as his sister woke up very early, at the same time as he is.
"Oh, you're awake, make me breakfast while I get my luggage."
"...! You're leaving immediately?"
"Yeah, I purchased a plane ticket two weeks ago and I'm going to the airport or else I'll miss my flight."
Chifuyu proceeds by putting much necessary items into her luggage, while Ichika cooks her breakfast and him as well since he's awake.
'I guess this is what Chifuyu-nee meant by returning the favor to the German army. I wonder why she has to go all the way to Germany though. Maybe she can only do it in there I suppose.'
Ichika made breakfast as usual and after finishing his breakfast; Chifuyu finished hers soon after and immediately left with her luggage.
"I'm off to Germany; I'll be seeing you after a year." Chifuyu said to her brother with a hint of sadness. Leaving her brother alone for a year is almost feels the same as the incident last year for her, where Madoka was being murdered.
"It's okay Chifuyu-nee, I can take care of myself." Ichika confidently said to cheer his sister up.
"I know you would.." Chifuyu left the building with a bitter smile on her face, as Ichika was preparing to go to school.
Knowing that his sister is not going to be home until next year, Ichika has a lot more freedom and more responsibilities for one year.
School went as usual, Ichika is already at his second year of high school, which is the Yumizuki Imperial High School, and he's doing well. Although his academics are average, compared to his late twin sister Madoka, who had scored a very high mark on her academics before she had passed away, he excels at physical education where at almost every school he had been into he was the most active student when it comes to PE, a complete contrast of his late twin sister.
"Hey Ichika, did you heard that there will be an IS entrance exam here next Monday?"
Dan was walking with Ichika into the hallway as they were on break time.
"Oh, so that's why there are some unfamiliar women here, they probably preparing for that."
"I wonder who will take the IS entrance exam next Monday?"
"I-Ichika-kun, Dan-kun." A voice came from behind the two boys.
"Hm, Homura?" Ichika saw a black haired girl with purple eyes approaching them. She wears glasses and her hair is tied into twin pigtails, and appears to be a frail girl. She was one of Madoka's friends and after the incident she had become Ichika's acquaintance.
"What's up Homura?" Dan asked her.
"Do you know about the IS entrance exam?" Homura asked.
"Well, we were just talking about that, what do you know about it?" Dan said to her.
"Well, a lot of girls from middle school were going to take the test and they will be here at one of the testing room next Monday."
"By the way, how's the student council Homura?" Ichika asked her a different question.
"Um..I'm still nervous about the student council, since they just recruited me so suddenly at that time. But I'm trying my best to do my role in the student council."
"I see...by the way, was the student council involved in the IS entrance exam?"
"Not exactly, the principal herself allowed them to set up the test here at one room downstairs. Um if you excuse me, I must return to my classroom." And Homura left to her class leaving the boys.
"Hm... Ichika, do you have time to come at the eatery? We need some help today."
After school, Ichika went at his friend's house, the Gotanda eatery. There he helped out at the eatery with his friend Dan, and spend some time there.
"Ichika, you seemed a little bit down today. What's up?"
"Oh..Chifuyu-nee left to Germany to settle some things and she won't be back until next year."
"Eh, so that means the whole apartment is entirely yours for the whole year?"
"Yeah, I have to lock it down every time every time I want to go outside."
"Hey Ichika, mind if I go to your apartment with you later after both of our shift's finished? I want to see it since I haven't been inside before."
"Huh, sure as long you don't make too much mess. Cleaning up Chifuyu-nee's mess is already hard enough."
The two arrived at the Gotanda eatery, still having their conversation along the way as they're preparing for their shift.
"Ah, don't worry about it. Wait, so that means you can extend your shift until evening right?"
"Sure, if that's what you want."
'Phew, you're a lifesaver.'
"Onii, you sure take your sweet time…" And glaring at Dan is his younger sister Ran, who just recently reached puberty.
"A-ah Ran, were you expecting us?"
"Ah Ichika-san, are you working today?" As Ran looked at Ichika, she immediately blushed.
"Ah yes, and I'll be working until evening."
"Why?"
"Well…" Ichika briefly explained the situation to Ran.
"Is that so, so that means you'll be working until evening until your sister returns, right Ichika-san?"
Ichika nodded at Ran. As Ichika nodded, Ran started to blush even more.
'What is this feeling? Ichika-san will be here a lot longer. Just being with him is already making me happy. If only Onii was not here right now and it is just me and Ichika-san.'
"Huh, I guess she's daydreaming again…" Dan sighed.
"Well, I think we'll just ignore her and do our work."
"Yeah, sure. Don't forget to accompany me after the shifts over."
Ichika have been working part time along with Madoka two years ago ever since they've started high school due to they wanted a part-time job and trying to be less dependent at their sister. Dan of course wanted them to work at his family eatery due to them being near the eatery and they are rather close friends.
After the shift ended…
"Man, there's a lot of customer today. I'm pretty beat." Dan was wiping his sweat after the shift ended.
"Really? I thought it was quite fun today."
"Yeah, for you. Come on Ichika, let's check out your apartment."
As both boys were going outside in the dusk, Ran stopped them.
"Onii, where are you going?"
"Oh, just checking out Ichika's apartment."
"Really, I want to go too."
"W-What? Okaa-san, is it okay for Ran to go with us."
"Oh why of course, have fun Ran."
"Man, you're a spoilt one…"
"Well then Ichika-san, let's go."
Mukashishiki Building, Evening.
At the evening, Ichika went back to his way to his apartment along with Dan and Ran. However, since his sister won't be with him for a year, he might as well take responsibility at his apartment like paying the rent that he will have to pay monthly.
'Sigh, I wonder if I can pay the rent for one year...?'
As the three went inside the building, the Gotanda siblings are in disbelieve.
"Whoa man…it looked so old here. It's like we're back in time."
"Amazing…"
Ichika guided them to his apartment in the second room. As they reached the door, Ichika took out the keys and unlocked them. The door opens and the three entered the apartment.
"Dude, this is the kind of western type apartment here. I can't believe I haven't visited you here a year ago." Dan looks around the apartment with awe.
"Wow, I finally got a chance to enter their apartment."
The two siblings looked around the room including Chifuyu and Ichika's room briefly. As the two finished sightseeing Ichika's apartment, the sky turned into night.
"Ara, it's already night time. You guys better get going."
"Yeah I know Ichika. Come on Ran, let's go."
"Geez , I know Onii."
The two siblings left the building back to their residence and Ichika is now alone in his apartment. Tired from his work at the Gotanda Eatery, he decided to go to the eatery nearby his apartment, which was the Chinese restaurant that he and Chifuyu visited for dinner at some occasions.
"Hey Uncle." He greeted the owner, who was serving the customer as always.
"Ah, If it isn't the Orimura boy. Eh, where is your sister?"
"Ah, she left to overseas today, in Germany for a year."
"Germany, what is she doing there?"
"Something to do with training some soldiers."
"Ah, I see...If you're having trouble, you can come here if you can."
"Thanks uncle, but I'm trying not to be over-reliant to anyone."
"Hah, such an independent young man. What you will be having, the usual?"
"The usual."
The siblings had been here for dinner occasionally, within one year and the owner considered them as regulars. And within those occasions Chifuyu would always pay for the meal, but this time he will pay for the expenses. Luckily, Chifuyu did gave him some money that she will think to last for a year, but he would still find a part-time job so that he wouldn't use the money he received a lot.
"Thanks for the meal uncle."
"Ah, you are most certainly welcome."
As Ichika left to the entrance of the Chinese restaurant, a voice called out to him.
"Wait!" Ichika turned around and saw her, the Chinese restaurant's owner's daughter, Huang Lingyin. They have known each other by their names only.
"Rin?"
"Um, I want to thank you for-"
"It's no big deal really. But I don't think I can protect you forever Rin, you know that."
"I know but…"
"What's wrong Rin?"
"Ichika-san, I….I wanted to thank you before it's too late."
"What?"
"My family will move back to China soon…."
"…! I see, why'd your family move back to China?"
"My mother had been offered a job in an IS industry back in China. My mother accepted them and we're expected to be back there soon."
"I guess we'll be saying our goodbyes soon. I had a lot of good time spending in your family's restaurant. By the way, what are you going to do there?"
"Eh? I…don't know."
"So..you're not coming back to Japan Rin?"
"No…"
"Why didn't you thank me earlier, you could have done so."
"Your sister is scary, that's why I didn't thank you earlier! She's always with you whenever you come here."
"Is that so…I can understand that."
Mukashishiki building, Night
Ichika left the restaurant and went back to his apartment towards his room. He opened the door to his room and he sensed something wrong. The door was unlocked; it was supposed to be locked when he was in school and when he left just recently. He went inside, and looks around if there is something abnormal or missing from the room. After seeing that nothing was missing he turns his focused to the chair Chifuyu sits on which strangely focused towards the window in front of him as if someone was sitting on it looking at the window.
"Fufufu...you're late." A voice was coming from the chair facing the window and it surprises Ichika. It was similar to the scene where a mafia boss is about to reveal himself by turning the chair facing Ichika. And it happen exactly that, and the person on the chair is none other than...
"Tabane?!"
"Fufufufu...long time no see, Ii-kun." There she is in front of him, the great genius Shinonono Tabane.
"What are you doing here, did Chifuyu-nee sent you here?"
"Nope, I came here on my own accord."
"Did you come here from the door?"
"Eh no, But I've unlocked the door for you."
"I don't even want to know where you came from, and I have the key to this place."
"Say Ii-kun, Chi-chan won't be here for a year right?"
"Yeah, how did you know?"
"Fufufu, don't underestimate this Tabane-sama."
"Aside from that, why are you here?"
"Why? Because I want to stay here~!"
"Huh?" Ichika was disbelieving to think that Tabane would stay with him.
"Besides, aren't you lonely Ii-kun, I mean Mado-chan's gone and Chi-chan is in Germany for a year. So, this Tabane-san will be your roommate for a year, isn't this fun~?" Tabane said as she jumped out of the chair and approaches Ichika with a hug.
"Uh yeah, great fun..." Ichika replied in a sarcastic manner and escapes Tabane's hug.
"So Ii-kun, where's my bed?"
"Um...you can sleep at Chifuyu-nee's bedroom." Ichika said as he pointed her to Chifuyu's bedroom.
"So this is Chi-chan's bedroom..." Tabane jumped to Chifuyu's bed and lays down into the bed.
"So this is where Chi-chan slept..." she said as she sets herself comfortable in her new bed.
"So Tabane-" As Ichika was about to ask her something,
Zzzzzzzz~ snoring can be heard.
"Zzzzzzz~ Chi-chan~zzzzzzzz~"
"Unbelievable, Tabane was looking active one minute and then this? Sigh, at least I won't alone for now."
Ichika let out a yawn as a sign of fatigue.
"Good night Tabane..."
Ichika left Tabane to sleep as he went to his room and went to 'sleep'.
Germany, Schwarzer Hase, Chifuyu
Here I am, at the Schwarzer Hase, It is somehow typical that they would be located somewhere remote.
I arrived at the entrance, after the base provided me transport here from the airport, to see that there are two female guards in front of me. I approached to the entrance gate and the guards looked at me and one of them said,
"Ah, you must be Brunhilde Chifuyu Orimura. We have been expected you." As the guards opened the gate, the other guard said, "Go straight ahead, you'll find Lieutenant Clarissa waiting for you at the hallway."
"…Thanks." I went inside with a weak reply to the guards.
I have to say, thanks to the IS, every military base I've been into have been adjusted into adding an IS training grounds. Then again, the military has the right to possess the IS. As I went inside the hallway, a familiar face is in front of me.
"Ah Brun, I have been expecting you. The soldiers can't wait to be trained under the second time IS pilot champion. Come, I'll show you the way."
Lieutenant Clarissa, she had tried her best on that day, and it seems she was recovered from that ordeal that year ago. And now I'm returning the favor by teaching these soldiers on IS piloting.
"If you don't mind…"
"Hm, what is it Brun?"
"These soldiers will replace the current IS representative in the future correct?"
"Yes, these soldiers have been training in their entire life in this base, so it would be appropriate that these soldiers would replace those current German IS pilots in the future."
"….."
As Lieutenant Clarissa said weeks ago, I saw around thirty soldiers in rows, ready to be trained with the IS as I saw some IS units behind them. Somehow, one soldier caught my attention. A silver-haired girl standing firm in line, but I see something else about that girl.
"Clarissa, do you mind telling me who that girl far away is?"
"Oh, that is Commander Laura Bodewig, at least former commander. Her military skills are the best in this base, but her IS piloting skill is the opposite. That's why she got demoted, and I was hoping you could train her on piloting her IS."
"Ah, is that so?"
I approached her with a stern look on my face. She seemed to understand me as she stood firm towards me with a stoic face, but I can tell she's nervous.
"You."
"Y-yes ma'am."
"I will train you to be good with piloting an IS, I'll guarantee that but you will be train strictly, understand!"
"Yes, Ma'am!"
"As for the rest of you, IS training starts now!"
'"YES MA'AM!"'
And my life as an instructor here for a year begins now….
Monday, Yumizuki Imperial High School, Normal
Yumizuki High, a high school where Ichika and Dan studied. It's the day of the IS entrance exam, where for the whole two weeks students ranging from middle school to early high school attend to a specific location like this school , to test their IS aptitude in hopes they would be accepted to enroll in the IS Academy. Sadly, this only applies to females only….
Orimura Ichika saw the girls with different school uniform compared to his school's uniform through the classroom window to the hallway during break time, and he can heard his female classmates gossiping.
"Hey, it's starting right?"
"Yeah, the IS entrance exam…" As they were talking to each other, they approach Ichika.
"Um Orimura-kun, IS aptitude can be determined how fit you are right?"
"Eh, why do you ask me that for? I don't even know a thing about IS."
"Um, it's just that the more fit you are, the higher your aptitude with an IS."
"Is that how IS works?"
"I don't know, but from what I've heard that IS were supposed to be used for space travel."
"Oh, I see…"
"Orimura-kun, if you were able to pilot an IS I think your aptitude will be very high consider that you excel P.E."
"Nah, that will be impossible. Besides, I don't see a reason why I would even want to pilot an IS."
"Madoka should be in the IS Academy right now…"
"Hey, don't bring that out. I don't think it will do us good if we remember her for the wrong reason."
"Sorry Orimura-kun…"
"Still…It's unlucky of us that we're in the second year of high school now. The IS entrance exam only applies to middle school students and the first years of high schools."
"I think that makes sense Makiko, IS Academy is a high school institution like this one."
"Except that they also teach you how to pilot a power suit."
Suddenly, shrieks can be heard outside of the classroom.
"…! What's going on?" Ichika stood up from his desk and opened the classroom door. Dan was right behind him, after getting some lunch and was supposed to get back to class but an out-of-control Uchigane run rampant on the hallway near Ichika's classroom.
"Ichika, what are you doing?!" Dan shouted to him as Ichika came face to face with the out-of-control Uchigane.
"Get away, you'll get hurt!" The pilot warned Ichika.
"No, I'm not worried about me. I'm worried about the others.."
The students run away to certain distance away from the Uchigane.
"Orimura, get away from the IS!" A teacher shouted to him, most likely the next subject teacher for the next period to Ichika's class.
The Uchigane focused to Ichika and ready to strike the target, which is Ichika.
'Damn it, it's going to get me!'
"Don't!" The pilot closed her eyes and prepares for the worst.
In an instant, Ichika felt something calling out to him.
"Orimura Ichika, the time to fight is….NOW!"
Ichika stood stoically and take a deep breath. His right hand formed a great sword in an instant, similar to the White Knight. His eyes are focused on the rampaging Uchigane and in that moment he does what surprises everyone in the scene.
"Come forth….SHIRO KISHI(WHITE KNIGHT)!"
As Ichika shouted that sentence, symbols that look like screens of status appeared and shattered to crystalized pieces. Then another voice rings out the hallway.
"I am thou. Thou art I. From the sea of thou soul, thy hath come forth. I am Shiro Kishi, the original one!"
The White Knight appears from Ichika and coordinates herself with Ichika.
"What the hell?!" Dan was in disbelieving, and so does everyone to the sudden turns of events.
Ichika readies his sword by holding his sword with his two hands to his right and the White Knight follows him but instead to her left.
"Hang in there." Ichika and the White Knight raised his sword in their own direction and lunges forward.
"Hahhhh!" Ichika and the White Knight slashed the Uchigane at the centre in a form of an X, putting the Uchigane into a halt. The Uchigane came to a halt, but not completely immobilized.
The Uchigane let out a flurry of punches at Ichika but Ichika's reflexes allows him to dodge the punch by stepping back. Holding his sword, he performs an upward slash and further damages the Uchigane.
"NOW, SHIRO KISHI!" Shiro Kishi finished off the Uchigane with a downward slash, causing the Uchigane to lose all of its shield energy, rendering it immobile.
"Haa…." The pilot was relieved to have stopped and the others are safe thanks to Ichika and Shiro Kishi.
"Are you alright?" Ichika lend his hand to the pilot.
"Ah, yes thank you…"
Then students and the others nearby who witnessed the incident find it hard to grasp of what just happened.
"Eh, did you see that?"
"Orimura-kun just summoned an IS?"
"That's no ordinary IS, that's the legendary White Knight!"
"You mean that mysterious IS which disappeared without a trace 8 years ago?!"
"Ichika…"
Ichika looks around him and those who surround him are filled with awe.
"Hey Ichika, you just saved this school." Dan said to him as he put his hand into his shoulder.
As Ichika holds the great sword, the sword disintegrates into light particles and disappeared. Same goes with the White Knight.
"Yeah, I did…"
And thus the event is now called the 'Second White Knight Incident'.
Mukashishiki Buiding, Evening.
After working part time at Dan's family eatery, Ichika went back to his apartment. Tabane has stayed with him since last Saturday and with her, Ichika knew it will be a wild ride for a year.
"I'm home." Ichika lazily greeted his roommate.
"Welcome back Ik-kun~!" Tabane was in only her towel, her hair is dripping wet greeted him with enthusiasm.
"Hm, what's wrong Ik-kun, you looked tired today."
"Um, there's something going on my school that's all."
"I see, I see…"
"You took a shower just now Tabane?"
"*Nod* Tabane-san was too busy with something this morning that I didn't take a shower this morning."
"I see…*sigh* I have homework to do, so I'll be cooking dinner later if you want, though dinner will be a small one."
"Hai~!"
Ichika took out his schoolbag, took out his books and stated to do his homework. As he did his homework, Tabane let out a sly smile.
'Hm…The White Knight respond to his summon…And Ik-kun has done well fighting off that Uchigane. This Tabane-sama is proud of you Ik-kun.'
Tuesday, Yumizuki Imperial High School
It was another morning for Orimura Ichika as he along with Dan walked their way to school, or is it?
"Ah, there he is!"
"Good morning Orimura-kun!"
"Morning 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki'!"
"Morning hero~!"
Crowds of girls are surrounding Ichika and Dan as they arrived.
"Eh, what's going on here?"
"Ara ara Ichika, you seem not to get it, do you? You saved the school and there will be people admiring you for that."
"I know that Dan, but I never thought it will escalate this far as I've received a new title."
"Hey, look at this way Ichika, if it wasn't for you there will be injuries of student body and teachers and maybe even casualties. Come on 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki', we're going to be late for class if we keep standing here."
"Now you're calling me that?"
"Come on Ichika, we don't want to be late because of these fan girls."
"Hey wait up!"
Ichika and Dan went on to their class, class 2-C, for their normal lesson. And inside, more students greet Ichika with that title and even gossip about him about yesterday.
"Hey it's the 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki'."
"He's in class 2-C right? I'm going to visit him later lunch time."
"By the way, ever what happened to that IS yesterday?"
"I don't know, maybe the student council knows."
"I don't think so. Homura mentioned that the student councils don't get involved with the IS entrance exam."
"*sigh* Why do you even bother? I'm sure that IS will be repaired anyways."
The two went to their class and ready for the lesson. The teacher arrives nervously as she approaches the student at the podium.
"U-um…regarding the incident yesterday. The IS staff announced that they will continue to proceed with the IS entrance exam here despite the situation from the last incident."
"Um Sakurai-sensei, what happened during the last incident, did the pilot lose control or did she do it intentionally?" A female student asked Sakurai Izumi, the homeroom teacher.
"Um, the IS staff state that the IS went uncontrollable and the pilot was not intent of causing havoc in that incident."
"Sakurai-sensei, what if the incident happens again?" Another female student asked.
"Well, if that happens, Ichika will take it down again, right Ichika?" Dan somehow answered.
"Oi, don't involve me into this Dan!"
"Hahaha,I was just joking."
"Don't worry, the IS staffs have prepared with their own IS if incidents were to occur."
"Um Sakurai-sensei, about the incident, will this be revealed in public?" Ichika asked his homeroom teacher.
"Ah Orimura-kun, don't worry. This incident will not be revealed outside of this school. This is to ensure your safety, and the IS staffs' also. The IS staffs will most likely to be fired if the incident is being found out."
"Oh, what a relief."
"Well then, shall we begin our homeroom then?"
""Yes Sensei."" The students spoke in unison.
At lunch time….
Ichika made his own lunch due to its very troublesome to buy lunch from the cafeteria. And the IS entrance exam made the school even more crowded due to the students from another school and the IS staffs. And through the classroom window from the hallway, lots of students are eyeing on Ichika.
Seeing that he'll have a spare time after finishing his meal, he decided to see Homura to see if she was alright after the incident.
"Hey Homura."
"Ah Ichika-kun." Homura was on her way to the student council room when Ichika called her.
"Are you alright Homura, you know, about yesterday?"
"Ah, I'm alright, thanks to you. That IS almost reached the student council room where I was doing my task that day. So, thank you 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki'.*giggle*"
"Ah, lunch time is almost over, I better get back to class."
"Ah, see you later Ichika-kun."
'I guess I could get used to this title.' Ichika smiled at the thought as he went back to class.
One week later, Madoka's grave
Ichika went to visit his twin sister's grave as an anniversary. He does not have anything to offer to his twin sister; just visiting her grave is enough for him. He approaches his twin sister's grave and began 'speaking' with her.
"Madoka, I'm doing fine. Chifuyu-nee went to Germany to settle some things; I don't really know what it is though. Madoka, you wanted to be an IS pilot just like Chifuyu-nee. If you were with us, you'll be at the IS Academy already. *Sigh* I should have given you flowers, but I don't really see you like flowers that much anyway."
"Hey Ichika."
"Ichika-san!"
"Ichika-kun." As he turned, Dan, Ran and Homura arrived behind him.
"Dan, Ran, Homura…Are you visiting Madoka's grave also?"
"Yeah, we thought of visiting her, and Homura came to our house to join her. So basically, we want to go to the same place right now."
"Thanks guys…"
"N-No problem Ichika-kun."
"Hey, there's no way I can replace Madoka man."
"That's right Ichika-san."
Dan, Ran and Homura approaches Madoka's grave and 'speak' to her as well.
"Madoka, I wish I could spend more time with you. Ever since we met during the orientation, we already become close to each other when we're placed in the same class and the time you introduced your twin brother to me. Ichika-kun looks out for me and we've become closer along with Dan-kun ever since you passed away. Madoka….I'm glad I've met you."
"Madoka, I've known you ever since Ichika introduced you to me. I and Ichika have been in the same class since last year and Homura has been quite lonely without you. Don't worry Madoka, I'll keep Ichika company and me and Ichika will look out for Homura, especially due to her poor health. So just watch over us Madoka."
"Madoka-san, we've met when Onii dragged you to work in our family eatery."
"Hey, I didn't dragged her into working our family eatery, the two wanted to work so as a friend I offered them work in our place."
"Of course Onii, I should thanked you for introducing the twins into our lives. Madoka-san, even though our time working together along with Ichika-san was short, I'm still glad I've met you along with Ichika-san."
"""So look out after us from above!""" The three clapped their hands once as they said that.
"So Ichika, we'll be leaving now. We've got work to do back at our place, our shift is starting is starting soon and Okaa-san is expecting us."
"See you later Ichika-san."
"Ah Ichika-kun, I have things to do at home. It's about the matters of the student council. See you later."
"Ah, I'll be here for a bit longer. Tell Ren-san I'll be late.
"Got it Ichika, make sure you don't take too long."
"Alright."
As the three said their goodbyes, they left Ichika as he wanted to stay longer. As Ichika took another glance at Madoka's grave, he sensed a presence, a different and familiar one. He turned around and there was a girl wearing a big red scarf. Her long jet black hair is tied into a ponytail and she has a sharp eyes that might looked intimidating but not for Ichika.
'That red scarf…'
"Houki…"
"…." The girl didn't reply as she is intently staring at Madoka's grave. The girl approaches the grave and looked towards Ichika.
"It's been a while Senpai…"
It had been 4 years ago that Shinonono Houki, the girl with the big red scarf had seen Ichika and Madoka as well. This is due to the situation that the Shinonono family has to face. Ever since the introduction of the IS, the government had to take action to the Shinonono family by making them move out somewhere else for a set period of time, thus making it hard for Houki.
"Yeah, it's been a while. I see you wore that scarf I gave you before you left that day, it really suits you."
"I just think I looked good in red, that's all." Houki turned away as her face has becoming red. The red scarf she wore was given by Ichika before she had to leave with her family and the ribbon that tied her hair into a ponytail had been given by Madoka. Houki took her sight on the grave and 'spoke' to her.
"Madoka-senpai, you and I have been training kendo ever since you, Ichika-senpai and Chifuyu-san came into our family at your time of need. I remembered that you approached me to train with me since I was one of the best students in the dojo. You and I trained in the way of the sword while Ichika-senpai trained in the way of the spear somewhere else, but he always visited the dojo when he finished practicing. I remembered when you introduced him to me for the first time."
"Ah Houki, this is my twin brother Ichika. Ichika this is my training partner Houki."
"Ah, you're Houki. It's nice to meet you."
"A-ah, nice to meet you." I remembered during our first meeting, he carried a training spear. So I assumed that he trained in a dojo several blocks away from ours.
Both of you were three years older than me, so it was uncomfortable at first. And few days before me and my family left to move out, you two gave me a ribbon and a scarf. The scarf was too big for me at the time and Madoka-senpai said to me that I looked good in a ponytail.
"So Madoka-senpai I…I loved you for everything you have done." Houki, with her last words to the grave, stood up and looked at Ichika once again.
"I don't know what to say Ichika-senpai, losing a family member in a tragic way…"
"Don't Houki, you don't have to say anything."
"*Sigh* It feels good letting that out of my chest…I hope we can see each other again. Goodbye senpai."
Ichika took a brief glance at Madoka's grave and looked at Houki's direction, but she disappeared immediately.
"Yeah, hope we meet again, Kunoichi Houki…" Ichika left the grave and went to start his shift at the Gotanda Eatery.
As Ichika left, another figure visit Madoka's grave. It was Tabane. Like all the others she started 'speaking' to the grave.
"Mado-chan, Ik-kun won't be alone anymore. I gave Ik-kun a companion, and I'll be staying with Ik-kun until Chi-chan returns. So, I hope you're doing okay up there, and Tabane-san will be good to Ik-kun, you'll see."
And in an instant, Tabane disappeared in the same manner Houki did, without a trace.
Schwarzer Hase, Germany, 6 months later
It's been 6 months since Chifuyu trained the soldiers in Schwarzer Hase, and one particular soldier Laura Bodewig showed great progress. Laura Bodewig was walking with Chifuyu after training.
"How did you become this strong? What must I do to become stronger?"
"I had a little sister…"
As Chifuyu said that with a gentle smile, Laura's heart feels like it has been punctured by a needle. For Laura, the image of Chifuyu is the strict demon instructor, not what she is seeing in front of her.
"A little sister?"
"I had, she died a year ago. And it was my fault."
"I don't understand. What are you talking about?"
"She died because of my carelessness. To think I had the power to protect her…" Chifuyu showed her face of regret.
"But she's dead, you should forget about her!" Laura's outburst triggered a change in Chifuyu's face.
"Do you think I could forget the dead if it's my fault that person is dead?" Her face is of the strict demon instructor.
"A-ah, sorry…"
"*sigh* I shouldn't dwell in the past, not right now. I have a little brother to take care of. Hm, maybe he doesn't need me anymore to take care of him by the time I return back to Japan. He has become a lot more mature because of her."
"What are you talking about Instructor?"
"I have a twin siblings, both are my little sister and brother."
'Why, why does your face changes when you mention about your younger siblings? When you mentioned your little sister you let out your gentle face but when you mentioned about your younger brother your face is of the strict demon instructor, what is going on?'
"…I don't understand."
"It's good that you remain like that. Ah, if you have a chance to come to Japan one day, maybe you can meet him..."
"Meet him?"
'I have envisioned as strong, courageous and indomitable. But seeing your other face makes me wonder, about your little brother. What is the difference between your little sister and your little brother make up of my vision of you?'
"Well, I'll see you tomorrow, as usual."
"Yes, Instructor!"
Another 6 months later, Japan
"*Phew* Finally back home." Orimura Chifuyu took a taxi from the airport and went to her apartment, which is also Ichika and Tabane's, but she didn't know about the latter.
"*Sigh* It's been a year now, I wonder how Ichika's been doing." Chifuyu went to her apartment and opened the door.
"Ichika, I'm back-" What Chifuyu saw next is what she had least expected.
"Ah, Chi-chan's here!" Tabane greeted her and called Ichika out. "Ik-kun, Chi-chan's back!"
"Really?" Ichika came out from the kitchen.
"Oh you're right, Chifuyu-nee welcome back."
Chifuyu dropped her luggage and looked suspiciously at both of them.
"What's going on here, why is SHE here?!"
"Oh don't be so rude Chi-chan, Tabane-san wants to accompany Ik-kun while you're gone."
"I don't remember you giving a consent to do so, and he can take care of himself."
"How mean of you Chi-chan, I don't want Ik-kun to be alone after Mado-chan is gone."
"*Sigh* Whatever, I hope you're not conducting any mischief?"
"Of course not Chi-chan, Ik-kun is a very good boy~."
"I'm not talking about Ichika, I'm talking about you!"
"Eh, Chi-chan thinks I'm not mature?"
"Not if you act like your own age."
"Tabane-san always acts like my own age!"
"Says you!"
As much as the two women arguing to each other, Ichika saw this as a strong bond of friendship being forged ever since they're in elementary school. However, Ichika had to say this in front of them.
"Tabane, now that Chifuyu-nee is back, I think you should leave now."
"EEHHH?! B-but Tabane-san doesn't want to leave!"
"Tabane, you said you're going to stay here until Chifuyu-nee comes back."
"B-But I won't be able to eat your cooking again, your cooking tastes good Ik-kun." Tabane hugs Ichika in his arm, and Ichika pats her head like a pet out of pity.
""*Sigh* Tabane…""
"Tabane, if you want to stay here that badly, you need to rent a room here." Ichika told Tabane, and in an instant a light bulb lights up.
"Ah, I've got an idea. Thank you Ik-kun."
""Huh?""
"Tabane-san had found an abandoned underground laboratory in this building called 'Gouma-den'. Tabane-san will stay there from now on!"
"Underground laboratory?"
"You'll see Ik-kun, Chi-chan. I just need to renovate the lab and make it mine!" Tabane left the apartment, leaving the siblings there in blinding speed. Chifuyu looked at her little brother with a curious face.
"What? I actually didn't know about the Gouma-den."
One day later…
Chifuyu and Ichika were surprised as they went to the basement of the Mukashishiki building to check it out and there lies a laboratory as Tabane said and it is already renovated.
"Ah, Chi-chan, Ik-kun, what do you think? I spent a whole day renovate this place. From now on, Tabane-san will stay here with you guys!"
""WHAT?!""
Now their lives will turned to be more interesting….
Germany, In the event of the third Mondo Grosso
Orimura Chifuyu prepared for the finals with her IS [Kurezakura]. And this time, she will face against an American representative cadet, Natasha Fairs, with her IS [Silver Gospel], although her IS is still at its experimental stage.
"Hey Natasha, you made it this far. But underestimate the Brunhilde, she had been victorious twice in a row." Her companion, Iris Calling gave her an advice.
"I know I know. I've already witness what she can do, especially with only that one weapon."
As both finalists prepare to face each other, the two looked at each other briefly.
"I see you're still participating this tournament despite what happened two years ago."
"That's in the past, let's do this."
"You're on Brunhilde."
"BEGIN!"
Meanwhile back in Japan….
Ichika was walking on his way back to the apartment to see the finals on TV. It was evening and he finished his shift at the Gotanda Eatery. However as he was near to his apartment, a suspicious black van was closing onto him. He sensed something was wrong and decided to walk in the direction away from his apartment to confirm his suspicion. As he walked on the right, the van followed and it's closing in towards Ichika. The van speeds up and passed in front of him and stopped. The door of the van opened revealing men in black suits pursuing Ichika.
'Damn!' Ichika now knew he was in great danger.
"Hey kid, you're coming with us!"
"You won't get me that easily!" Ichika immediately take action and leap onto the van roof, surprising the men in black suits and runs away.
The men get back into the van and chased after him. Ichika took off within blinding speed, faster than the van that was chasing him.
'How did I-' Ichika realized that he is running faster than he normally would be.
'Forget it; I need somewhere place to hide.' Ichika spotted several abandoned warehouses and decided to hide there. The reason why he wanted to hide is to avoid destroying the residents and if he were to be cornered in the warehouses, he could just simply defend himself without worrying of destroying anything of value. The van managed to track him down and they managed to cornered him there.
"There's no escaping now kid. You have nowhere else to go."
Ichika looked at 6 or more men surrounding him and he felt something inside him tingle. And within this moment, Ichika let out a grin towards the men.
"You're right; I have nowhere else to go. So I have to destroy you!" Ichika prepares his stance and defending himself.
"Heh, you think you're tough, Hyaa!" The first man lunged forward and trying to land a punch but Ichika merely dodged it and exchanged it with his own blow. And what happens next the first man's face was disfigure upon contact of Ichika's fist, and was knocked out of a wall and destroying them in the process. He was immediately knocked unconscious and blood appears on his face.
"What the hell?!" The other men were at disbelief and so does Ichika.
'What did I just do?'
"You're going to pay for that kid!" The other men charged ahead and Ichika dodged all of them like it was nothing.
'I can see them…' And Ichika let them taste of his fury and send them flying almost literally. One man even saw sent in the sky, two was knocked out in the warehouse wall and the last two was knocked out in the other warehouse wall. All of them are unconscious and bloody, nobody knows if they're still alive.
"What is going on there?!" A female voice can be heard from the van. A woman came out of the car and see the atrocities that is happening right now.
"What in the world of-!" She looked at the state of the minions and looked at Ichika.
"You, you leave no other choice but to do this!" The woman said as something flashing is happening at the woman.
'Is she…going to deploy an IS?'
After the flash ceased, the woman was equipped with an IS. It was an Uchigane.
"Do you think you can win against an IS?!" The woman lunged at Ichika at blinding speed with her katana in hand. As she approached him, the man from the sky falls under her.
"Damn it you- Get off me!" The woman heaved the falling man and continues her attack.
"Hah!" The woman swung her sword and Ichika dodged the attack thanks to his daily training at his dream world.
"Damn it kid, hold still!" The woman let out a flurry of slashes and Ichika dodged all of them. The woman switched to swing vertically.
"Damn it you!" Ichika reacted differently, instead of dodging; he blocks the attack by deploying his great sword. Needless to say, the woman was surprised.
"That's a partial deployment, how is that possible?!"
"Oh, so that's what it's called…" Ichika prepares his stance against the woman.
"Here I go!" Ichika charges ahead and slashed against the woman in the Uchigane. The woman blocked his attack but she is in a disadvantage, the weight of Ichika's sword can break the Uchigane's guard easily. The woman backs off and it was her turn to charge. Ichika simply blocks her attack and parry them.
"Damn it, how is it possible for you to stand a chance against an IS?!" The woman was bewildered at the situation she's into.
"I don't know…"
"Just…what are you?!" The woman still bewildered asked Ichika.
"What am I…? I am…" As Ichika was going to continue, screens started appearing around Ichika.
"W-What is this?!"
"I am…THE IMPERIAL KNIGHT OF YUMIZUKI! SHIRO KISHI!" At his command, the White Knight appeared and came to his aid.
"Th-the White Knight?!" The woman was obviously surprised as she was immobilized in awe.
"Shiro Kishi, immobilize her with lightning!" the White Knight holds her sword and raised them at the sky and that moment, lightning appeared over the Uchigane and caused a thunderbolt to the Uchigane, rendering it immobilized. Ichika seized his chance and close in to the stunned Uchigane and performs an upward slash to send the Uchigane to the van and destroyed it thus lose all of its shield energy and led to the pilot unconscious.
"Heh, you're as tough as they say…..ugh." And with her final words, she collapsed.
It was after the fight Ichika realized what he had done. He was surprised what he had done to these people, despite their intentions.
"…."
"Now do thou see what you are capable of?"
"….You're right Shiro Kishi, I should be careful next time…"
After a brief moment, police cars and helicopters surrounding the area. One of the helicopters has a camera capturing the scene.
"Is that an IS?"
"That's the White Knight!"
"Oh crap, I didn't expect this." Ichika sweat dropped at the number of police and cameras surrounding him.
"….." The White Knight said nothing.
"Are you alright young man?" One officer approached him.
"Ah yes, I'm alright." Ichika replied as he 'keeps' his sword and the White Knight back.
"Come on, you need to go to the station and explain everything."
Ichika complied and went to the police station. The ambulance arrived shortly and took the severely injured man and the unconscious woman.
At the police station…
Ichika explained what had happened to him regarding about the mysterious people who tried to do something to him.
"I see…so this group of people you referring are following you is that correct?"
"Yes."
"From what you've told us, we assumed that you are being targeted by some anonymous group. Your name is Orimura Ichika correct? I know, you're from the news two years ago, about your twin sister…Right now, you shall be accompanied by two IS officers until your sister returns from the Mondo Grosso. We have to ensure your safety, I hope you understand. As for your actions earlier, you will not be charged with any of those; it's obvious that you're defending yourself."
"Ah, thank you."
"Well Orimura-san…"
"Shall we be on our way to your apartment?"
Ichika left with two IS officers wielding an Uchigane on standby as bodyguards to his apartment.
Back at the Mondo Grosso….
Orimura Chifuyu once again won and keep her title as Brunhilde after struggling against the [Gospel]'s extreme fire power and armor. But thanks to her only weapon, Yukihira, she achiedved her victory with only one strike.
"And keeping her title for the third time, Orimura Chifuyu from Japan once again being crowned as Brunhilde of the Mondo Grosso! Wait, there's breaking news happening in Japan!" the announcer speaks as the screens changed into the news.
This just in! The White Knight returned after 8 years of its disappearance and it is revealed that Orimura Ichika, known as the 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki' is the owner of the White Knight. Just now, the White Knight aids him from being kidnapped by an unknown group and by seeing this footage; he is summoning the White Knight and deployed his own sword similar as the White Knight. The White Knight is shown to cast lightning at the Uchigane of the mysterious group.
The news continues…
"Hey Brunhilde, isn't that your brother?" Natasha asked her.
"Yes, yes he is…"
'Ichika, you better explain everything when I get home!'
Mukashishiki Building, Night
It was after the Mondo Grosso, and Chifuyu was back in Japan.
"Ichika, mind explaining to me what had happened back then?"
"….." After a brief silence, Ichika disclose about the event and the school incident.
"…."
"….."
"…."
"So you've learned to summon Shiro Kishi during the school incident, and you get your title of 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki' after that…*sigh* somehow you got involved into something dangerous here and there."
"Just to let you know, the second White Knight incident only known by the school due to safety concerns for the IS staffs during the IS entrance exam."
"Ah that…Speaking of which, when did you learn how to fight?"
"Ah, I had daily training."
"Since when?"
"Two years ago…"
"…..Somehow, I knew Tabane is involved in this. I bet it's that suspicious looking bun Tabane gave that you ate two years ago that you gained the power of an IS."
"That seems to be the case…"
'Hm…Chifuyu-nee never asked about my training though…'
"You want to know why I didn't asked you about your training? Let's just say, being an IS pilot, I understand what you meant by daily training, you mean by subconscious training right?"
"Uh, yeah."
'You're going to be a great detective Chifuyu-nee…'
"….."
"…."
"…"
"You can come down now Tabane." Chifuyu said as she looked up at the ceiling. Part of the ceiling came off revealing Tabane inside.
"Hm…Chi-chan can see me already. You're a great detective Chi-chan~."
"Come down already." Tabane performs a backflip and landed perfectly.
"You have something to do with Ichika's power surge right?"
Tabane nodded and she added. "And I've caused the Second White Knight Incident back at Ik-kun school-"
BANG!-It was Ichika who punched Tabane in the head.
"Uuuuu~ Ik-kun, why did you do that?"
"Because I thought you deserve it."
"That's right Ichika, Tabane does deserve that."
"Mou, Chi-chan's a meanie~!"
"Well I wouldn't be mean to you if you weren't causing much mischief!"
"I do not Chi-chan, I'm as pure as driven snow!"
"How exactly pure was that?!"
As both women continued to argue to each other, Ichika being left out decided to take some fresh night air at the rooftop.
"*Sigh*…I'll be at the rooftop." Ichika went outside of his apartment and went to the stairway leading to the rooftop.
At the rooftop, the night breeze relaxes Ichika. The night sky was cloudless and the lights from the bottom and the residence nearby lights up down below. As Ichika observed the residential area below, he sensed a familiar presence. Shinonono Houki was behind him; her scarf lazily flowed to the direction of the night breeze.
"Hey Houki, it's been a while."
"….."
"What's wrong Houki?"
"…Nee-san is here right?"
"…"
"….."
"So Houki..."
"..?"
"What are you going to do?"
"Me…I'm going to study at the IS academy next year."
'Are you doing this for Madoka's sake?'
"How about you senpai?"
"..?"
"Surely, you know what you dragged yourself into. I saw the news."
"Ah about that…"
"What will happen to you?"
"…..Most likely, the government will do something about it…Ah, Chifuyu-nee's gonna be a detective soon."
"A detective? You mean Chifuyu-san is going to investigate about Madoka's murder?'
"Most likely."
"I'm glad; I want to know also, about Madoka's murder…"
"Me too…"
"Well then, this is goodbye. I hope we can meet again another time, 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki'."
"Goodbye Houki…" As they said their goodbyes, Houki leaped out from one building to another and disappeared.
'*Sigh*Now I'm well known as the 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki' in public.'
A year later to the storyline, Mukashishiki Building, January
Chifuyu has officially become a detective, and she retired as a representative of Japan, not as an IS pilot. She has opened her detective agency right at her apartment, turning it into a home and an office. Tabane has become Chifuyu's source of information and resources if she needed it. Although no one is sure about Ichika's role, since he's still studying in school and he has few months left of school until his finals and graduation.
Houki has taken the IS entrance exam, coincidently at Yumizuki Imperial High School, where Ichika will spend his last year at highschool and she managed to pass.
"There, that takes care of that." Chifuyu has finished putting the sign at the door of her apartment.
Orimura Detective Agency
"The Orimura Detective Agency is now officially in business!" Chifuyu proclaimed as Ichika and Tabane clapped in applause.
"I'll get started with the advertisements, Chi-chan's detective agency will be well known in no time~!" Since Tabane will be covering the advertisement department, it is fair to say the detective agency will be known for a short time.
"Ah, you do that. Ichika, this is your last year in high school, you better passed the finals and graduate this year!"
"Yes, Chifuyu-nee!" Ichika replied as he's leaving for school to prepare for the finals. Ichika went to his normal school life, or at least it should be…
Ever since the Third White Knight Incident, Ichika has been eyed by the government and a new treaty has been created called the 'Orimura Ichika Treaty', made by the Japanese government which to ensure that Ichika along with the White Knight will not be aligned with any country and to be remained neutral. Despite his new found powers, Ichika wants everyone to treat him as normally as possible.
And so….the detective life begins now.
Alright, this chapter is more like a rush really. At least the time has come for Chifuyu to do some detective work about Madoka's case and other cases.
Detective team status:
Name: Orimura Chifuyu
Gender: Female
Age: In her twenties
Element: Ice
Job: IS Detective
Details: The older sister of the Orimura Ichika and the deceased Orimura Madoka. She has now opened her own detective agency. Determined to solve Madoka's case but if there is no lead, she will focus on other cases.
Name: Orimura Ichika
Gender: Male
Age: 18
Element: Thunder
Job: Yumizuki Imperial High School Student, Imperial Knight of Yumizuki
Details: A Yumizuki Imperial High School student gained the title 'Imperial Knight of Yumizuki' after a certain incident. Possesses a power equal to an IS, a knight's blood and with a great physical attribute. It is unconfirmed if he's a member of the detective agency.
Name: Shinonono Tabane
Gender: Female
Age: In her twenties
Element: Star
Job: Genius inventor of the IS, Info seeker
Details: The great scientist who invented the IS, and become Chifuyu's resource finder. She grants Ichika the power of the White Knight and currently lives in the basement of their apartment building.
Others:
Name: Shinonono Houki
Gender: Female
Age: 15
Element: Fire
Job: Kunoichi, Kendo Practitioner, IS Academy Student
Details: Younger sister of Shinonono Tabane who attends the IS Academy, though her reason for that is quite vague. Half samurai, Half kunoichi but full traditional. Wears a big red scarf that Ichika had given her years ago.
Minor/Side:
Name: Gotanda Dan
Gender: Male
Age: 18
Element: Fire
Job: Ichika's classmate
Details: Ichika's classmate since high school. Works at his family eatery with his little sister. A laid-back person but can be reliable.
Name: Gotanda Ran
Gender: Female
Age: 14
Element: Ice
Job: Ichika's co-worker
Details: Dan's little sister. Often bossy and rough towards her brother but changed into a gentle and refined young girl in Ichika's presence.
Extra/Guest:
Name: Sakurai Izumi
Gender: Female
Age: Either in twenties or thirties
Element: Wind
Series: Nichijou
Details: A timid and nervous teacher. She took a role as Ichika's homeroom teacher. As reference to Yamada Maya.
Name: Akemi Homura (Frail)
Age: 17
Gender: Female
Element: Dark
Series: Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica
Details: A frail and timid version of Akemi Homura of the past. She took a role as Ichika and Dan's friend from another class. As reference to Orimura Madoka due to similar name as the main protagonist Kaname Madoka.
Just adding this just for fun…XP
Review if you have something in mind. Until then farewell.